U.S. patent number 10,544,624 [Application Number 15/410,841] was granted by the patent office on 2020-01-28 for system for a lock for a closure, a lock for use with such a system, and a closure system.
The grantee listed for this patent is Automatic Technology (Australia) Pty Ltd. Invention is credited to Geoffrey Baker, Raymond Hawkins, Serguei Pimenov.
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United States Patent |
10,544,624 |
Baker , et al. |
January 28, 2020 |
System for a lock for a closure, a lock for use with such a system,
and a closure system
Abstract
A system for a closure lock comprises a battery-powered remote
module with a lock mechanism for operating the lock, the remote
module communicating with a base station coupled to a closure
controller, the base station able to send lock control signals to
the remote module to operate the lock. The module is arranged to
have an operation mode and a non-operation mode, power consumption
in the non-operation mode being lower than that in the operation
mode, and is further configured to switch between the modes based
on instructions from the base station. In the non-operation mode,
the module maintains a communication link with the base station
based on a pre-established synchronisation protocol. The invention
provides reliability against interference between base station and
remote module, whilst greatly limiting the power consumption of the
remote module.
Inventors: |
Baker; Geoffrey (Keysborough,
AU), Hawkins; Raymond (Keysborough, AU),
Pimenov; Serguei (Keysborough, AU) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Automatic Technology (Australia) Pty Ltd |
Keysborough |
N/A |
AU |
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Family
ID: |
60296950 |
Appl.
No.: |
15/410,841 |
Filed: |
January 20, 2017 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20170328130 A1 |
Nov 16, 2017 |
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E06B
9/74 (20130101); E06B 9/13 (20130101); G07C
9/00309 (20130101); E06B 9/80 (20130101); E05B
47/0012 (20130101); E05B 47/026 (20130101); E05B
65/0021 (20130101); G07C 9/00 (20130101); E05B
2047/0067 (20130101); E05B 2047/0094 (20130101); E06B
2009/805 (20130101); E05B 2047/002 (20130101); G07C
2009/00928 (20130101); E06B 2009/804 (20130101); E05B
2047/0069 (20130101); E05B 2047/0058 (20130101); E05B
2047/0072 (20130101); G07C 2009/0038 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
G07C
9/00 (20060101); E06B 9/74 (20060101); E05B
65/00 (20060101); E05B 47/00 (20060101); E06B
9/80 (20060101); E06B 9/13 (20060101) |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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99/53161 |
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Oct 1999 |
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WO |
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WO-9953161 |
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Oct 1999 |
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WO |
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Other References
International Search Report and Written Opinion issued in
corresponding international application No. PCT/AU2017/050444.
cited by applicant .
Yongwan Park, Fumiyuki Adachi, Enhanced Radio Access Technologies
for Next Generation Mobile Communication, 2007, pp. 39-40, 1st
edition, Springer Netherlands, Dordrecht, Netherlands. cited by
applicant .
Third Party Observation filed in corresponding international
application No. PCT/AU2017/050444. cited by applicant .
Yongwan Park, Fumiyuki Adachi, Enhanced Radio Access Technologies
for Next Generation Mobile Communication, pp. 39-40, 2007 Springer,
Dordrecht. cited by third party.
|
Primary Examiner: Akki; Munear T
Attorney, Agent or Firm: DuBois, Bryant & Campbell, LLP
Wiese; William D.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A lock assembly for controlling a locking element for a closure,
the closure arranged to move between a closure open position and a
closure closed position in response to closure open commands and
closure close commands, the lock assembly having or associated with
a lock mechanism for moving the locking element between a locked
condition and an unlocked condition, the lock assembly having a
communication unit configured to wirelessly communicate with a base
station coupled to a closure controller, the closure controller
receiving said closure open commands and said closure close
commands, the base station arranged to send lock control signals to
the lock assembly to operate the locking element, the lock assembly
being arranged to have at least an operation mode and a
non-operation mode, in which power consumption of the lock assembly
in the non-operation mode is lower than that in the operation mode,
the lock assembly being configured to switch between the
non-operation mode and the operation mode based on instruction from
the base station, wherein, in the non-operation mode, the
communication unit maintains a communication link with the base
station based on a pre-established synchronization protocol, and
wherein when the closure is in said closure open position and a
closure close command is received by the closure controller the
locking element, if it is in the locked condition, is moved from
the locked condition to the unlocked condition, and wherein when
the closure reaches the closure closed position the lock assembly
moves the locking element from the unlocked condition to the locked
condition.
2. The lock assembly of claim 1, arranged to have at least three
modes of power usage, including: the operation mode in which the
communication unit is active for two-way communication with the
base station, and the lock mechanism can be actuated to operate the
locking element, a first non-operation mode being a standby mode,
in which the communication unit is active only to receive
communications from the base station; a second non-operation mode
being a sleep mode, in which the communication unit is inactive;
and wherein the lock assembly is configured to switch between the
operation mode, standby mode and sleep mode in accordance with a
pre-established protocol.
3. The lock assembly of claim 2, for use with a base station
configured to transmit first synchronization signals at first
prescribed intervals, wherein the lock assembly is programmed such
that, when in sleep mode, it switches for a preset duration to the
standby mode at or substantially at the first prescribed intervals
to detect the first synchronization signals, thereby to monitor a
communication link between the base station and the lock
assembly.
4. The lock assembly of claim 3, further configured such that, if
it does not detect a synchronization signal from the base station,
the lock assembly sends a request signal to the base station
requesting re-transmission of another synchronization signal.
5. The lock assembly of claim 4, further configured such that, if
no synchronization signal is received within a set time period from
sending the request signal, the lock assembly sends one or more
further request signals to the base station and, upon failure to
receive a synchronization signal, the lock assembly commences a
resychronization procedure to re-establish synchronized
communication with the base station.
6. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein timing control of
switching of the lock assembly between the non-operation mode and
the operation mode is provided by a lock assembly timer, and the
lock assembly is configured such that, upon detection of a
synchronization signal from the base station, timing of
transmission of the synchronization signal is used to adjust the
lock assembly timer.
7. The lock assembly of claim 1, in combination with a base station
for communicating with the communication unit of the lock assembly,
wherein the lock assembly is configured to transmit lock assembly
check signals at second prescribed intervals, and wherein the base
station is configured to detect the lock assembly check signals at
or approximately at the second prescribed intervals.
8. The lock assembly of claim 7, wherein the base station is
further configured such that, when it receives a lock assembly
check signal, it transmits a confirmation signal, and if this
confirmation signal is received by the lock assembly within a
prescribed time period from transmission of the lock assembly check
signal, the lock assembly switches to the non-operation mode.
9. The lock assembly of claim 7, wherein the base station is
configured to transmit first synchronization signals at first
prescribed intervals, and wherein further each of the first
prescribed intervals is one repeated time interval and, preferably,
each of the second prescribed intervals is a multiple of the one
repeated time interval.
10. The lock assembly of claim 1, further configured such that, if
the lock assembly receives a signal from the base station
signifying a particular closure controller status, it switches to
the operation mode.
11. The lock assembly of claim 1, configured to transmit a locking
element status signal to the base station concerning whether the
locking element is in the locked condition or the unlocked
condition, to be stored by the base station.
12. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein, when the locking element
departs from its locked or its unlocked condition, a signal is
transmitted by the lock assembly to the base station and stored as
a different status.
13. The lock assembly of claim 1, wherein the locking element is
provided with a manual operator.
14. The lock assembly of claim 13, further configured such that if
the manual operator is operated and the lock assembly is not in the
operation mode, the lock assembly switches into the operation mode
and transmits a signal to the base station to be stored as a
locking element status.
15. The lock assembly of claim 1, further configured such that, if
the base station sends a lock control signal to the lock assembly
to operate the locking element, and does not receive a
corresponding locking element status update within a prescribed
time, a prescribed action is performed.
16. The lock assembly of claim 1, configured to transmit
information concerning its power source status.
17. A control system for locking a closure, comprising two or more
lock assemblies of claim 1, arranged to communicate with a common
base station.
18. A control system for a lock for a closure, the control system
comprising: a lock assembly having or associated with a lock
mechanism for operating the lock, the lock assembly having a
communication unit and a replaceable power source which powers the
lock mechanism and the communication unit; and a base station
coupled to a controller of the closure, and configured to
communicate with the communication unit, the base station being
programmed such that, when initiated, it determines whether the
communication unit of a lock assembly having the replaceable power
source is present and, if so, establishes a synchronized
communication link therewith.
19. The lock assembly of claim 1, in combination with a closure
operator, to enable locking of the closure in a closed position by
way of the lock mechanism.
20. A lock assembly of claim 1, for operating to lock a closure
provided in a fixed structure, the lock assembly mountable on the
closure itself, for interaction with a part of the fixed
structure.
21. A closure system including two lock assemblies in accordance
with claim 1, the lock assemblies for use on opposed sides of a
closure to prevent movement of the closure, wherein the lock
assemblies are of like form and one is inverted so that its lock
mechanism operates for locking action in the opposite direction to
the other.
22. A system for controlling a closure, including a lock assembly
for controlling a locking element for the closure and closure
controller for controlling movement of the closure, the closure
arranged to move between a closure open position and a closure
closed position in response to closure open commands and closure
close commands received by the closure controller, the lock
assembly arranged to move the locking element between a locked
condition and an unlocked condition, the lock assembly having a
communications unit, the closure controller coupled to a base
station configured to wirelessly communicate with the
communications unit, the base station arranged to send lock control
signals to the lock assembly to operate the locking element in
accordance with a status of the closure controller, the lock
assembly being arranged to have an operation mode, a standby mode
and a sleep mode, wherein, in the operation mode, the communication
unit is active for two-way communication with the base station, and
the lock assembly can be actuated to operate the locking element,
wherein, in the standby mode, the communication unit is active only
to receive communications from the base station, wherein, in the
sleep mode, the communication unit is inactive, the lock assembly
being configured to switch between the operation mode, standby mode
and sleep mode in accordance with a pre-established synchronization
protocol, and wherein when the closure is in said closure open
position and a closure close command is received by the closure
controller the lock assembly moves the locking element, if it is in
the locked condition, is moved from the locked condition to the
unlocked condition, and wherein when the closure reaches the
closure closed position the lock assembly moves the locking element
from the unlocked condition to the locked condition.
Description
PRIORITY STATEMENT UNDER 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 119 & 37 C.F.R.
.sctn. 1.78
This non-provisional application claims priority based upon prior
Australian Patent Application No. 2016901828 filed on May 16, 2016,
in the name of Geoffrey Baker, Raymond Hawkins and Serguei Pimenov
entitled "Lock assembly, and control system for a lock," the
disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by
reference as if fully set forth herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to a system for a lock for a closure, a lock
for use with such a system, and a closure system. In particular,
embodiments of the invention relate to a wireless garage door lock
and a control system therefor, although the scope of the invention
is not necessarily limited thereto. Aspects of the invention also
relate to a closure system incorporating the lock assembly and/or
the control system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Conventional powered door operators, such as garage door operators,
include a motor and drive train assembly for moving the door. When
the motor is energised (under control of the electronic controller
of the operator), the drive train drives the door between its limit
positions, i.e. between set open and closed positions. For security
reasons, when the motor is turned off, it remains engaged with the
garage door via the drive train, and the operator or its drive is
designed to provide a locking function (e.g. through the use of a
worm gear drive in the drive train, which prevents back driving).
This serves to inhibit unauthorised movement of the garage door and
thereby prevent unwanted opening.
However in some situations it is not sufficient to rely solely on
the locking mechanism or function of the operator to securely lock
a door. For example, in the case of roller garage doors, a certain
degree of free rotation is possible if the door is forced open, as
a portion of the door curtain wound on the stationary axle drum can
partially unroll before further movement is prevented. This may be
sufficient in some situations to allow entry. In the case of an
overhead garage door, such as a sectional or tilt-up door,
attempting to force open the door (e.g. by using a crowbar between
the lower edge of the closed door and the ground) can cause
deformation of one or more parts of the drive mechanism (such as to
the door drive linkage or to the drive track), which can similarly
result in unauthorised access risk. For security reasons, such a
degree of movement for a door is not acceptable.
In other situations, the locking function of the operator or its
drive may be unreliable or faulty, e.g. due to wear and tear. In
these situations, it may be possible for an intruder to lift up a
closed garage door even when it appears to be safely locked.
Whilst manual mechanical locking systems for closure assemblies are
known, these can be of limited use, or can be less then reliable or
difficult to maintain and/or install. Further, the user wishing to
open the door needs to make the additional actions required to lock
and unlock the door (such as getting out of her car), which is a
significant inconvenience, meaning the door will often be simply
left unlocked. Electrically powered locks are also known, which may
operate under control of the user or automatically under control of
the operator controller, but have generally had limited
adoption.
Further, wireless locking systems with independent power supply are
also known, which avoid the need for electrical connection.
However, these have generally met with limited success, as
communication between a controller and known wireless locks can
present various problems with regard to reliability, power
consumption and signal interference.
WO 99/53161 teaches a remote controlled door lock, with a
controller with an RF receiver which alternates between a wake mode
and a sleep mode in order to conserve battery life. The controller
is programmed to awake at regular intervals, check for an RF
signals sent from a remote transmitter, move the lock bolt if a
properly coded instruction sequence is received, and revert to
sleep mode if not.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,666,054 also teaches a remote controlled door lock
which includes one or more key-operated deadbolts and in which, as
an additional security measure, when the deadbolts are unlocked it
is necessary to use a remote control device to allow door latch
release.
It is desirable to provide an improved control system for lock
assemblies which overcomes or ameliorates one or more of the
disadvantages or problems of the conventional art described above,
or which at least provides the consumer with a useful choice.
In this specification, where a document, act or item of knowledge
is referred to or discussed, this reference or discussion is not an
admission that the document, act or item of knowledge or any
combination thereof was at the priority date: (a) part of common
general knowledge; or (b) known to be relevant to an attempt to
solve any problem with which this specification is concerned.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a
system for a lock for a closure, the system comprising a remote
module having or associated with a lock mechanism for operating the
lock,
the remote module having a communication unit configured to
communicate with a base station coupled to a controller of the
closure, the base station able to send lock control signals to the
remote module to operate the lock,
the remote module being arranged to have at least an operation mode
and a non-operation mode, in which power consumption of the remote
module in the non-operation mode is lower than that in the
operation mode,
the remote module being configured to switch between non-operation
and operation modes based on instruction from the base station,
and
wherein, in the non-operation mode, the remote module maintains a
communication link with the base station based on a pre-established
synchronisation protocol.
In a preferred form, the remote module is arranged to have at least
three modes of power usage, including:
the operation mode in which the communication unit is active for
two-way communication with the base station, and the lock mechanism
can be actuated to operate the lock,
a first non-operation mode being a standby mode, in which the
communication unit is active only to receive communications from
the base station;
a second non-operation mode being a sleep mode, in which the
communication unit is inactive; and
wherein the remote module is configured to switch between the
operation mode, standby mode and sleep mode in accordance with the
pre-established protocol.
In one form, the above-defined system is for use with a base
station configured to transmit first synchronisation signals at
first prescribed intervals,
wherein the remote module is programmed such that, when in sleep
mode, it switches for a preset duration to the standby mode at or
substantially at the first prescribed intervals to detect the
synchronisation signals, thereby to monitor a communication link
between the base station and the remote module.
In accordance with the invention, the remote module can remain in
its sleep mode (i.e. its lowest power mode) for almost all of the
time, switching to said standby mode only at said first prescribed
intervals to check for an expected signal from the base station to
confirm communication synchronisation. If the received signal
contains particular data, then the remote module can switch into
operation mode for two-way communication and to operate the lock in
accordance with received signals.
The particular data is, for example, a command from the base
station to drive the closure.
Operation of the lock may involve releasing the lock from a locked
condition (e.g. against the action of a spring) or the lock
mechanism may be a drive mechanism, to drive the lock between a
locked condition and an unlocked condition.
In the operation mode, the remote module is thus able to receive
lock operation signals and, accordingly, to operate the lock (e.g.
to drive the lock between the locked and unlocked conditions). Once
the lock is operated (e.g. driven to its required position, either
locked or unlocked), the remote module switches back to sleep
mode.
Said synchronisation signals are preferably coded. They may contain
data concerning the identity of the base station, and/or concerning
the status of the controller. Said signals may be packetised
digital signals.
Preferably, successive synchronisation signals are sent in
accordance with a pseudo-random frequency hopping pattern. Said
communication unit and said base station are therefore configured
to support a frequency hopping communication protocol. Further,
successive synchronisation signals may be sent in accordance with a
pseudo-random code hopping pattern.
The remote module may be configured such that, if it does not
detect a synchronisation signal from the base station, a request
signal is sent to the base station requesting re-transmission of a
synchronisation signal.
The base station is configured to send a further synchronisation
signal to the remote module following receipt of the request
signal. Once the synchronisation signal is received by the remote
module, the remote module is configured to revert to sleep mode for
substantially the remainder of the prescribed interval.
Preferably, the remote module is configured such that, if no
synchronisation signal is received within a set time period from
sending said request signal, one or more further request signals
are sent and, upon failure to receive a synchronisation signal, the
remote module commences a resynchronisation procedure to
re-establish synchronised communication with the base station.
The re-synchronisation procedure may take any appropriate form, for
example, it may involve a process which re-establishes timing of
the remote module and which re-establishes a pseudo-random
frequency hopping pattern stored at both the base station and the
remote module.
The communication between the communication unit of the remote
module and the base station may take any suitable form. Preferably,
it is radio frequency communication. Alternatively, it may be
infrared communication.
The timing control of the switching of the remote module between
modes may be provided by a remote module timer. The remote module
may be configured such that, upon detection of a synchronisation
signal from the base station, the timing of the transmission is
used to adjust the remote module timer.
Said remote module check signals may be coded, and may contain
information concerning the identity of the remote module.
Successive synchronisation signals may be sent in accordance with a
pseudo-random frequency hopping pattern.
The above system may include a base station for communicating with
the communication unit of the remote module,
wherein the remote module is configured to transmit remote module
check signals at second prescribed intervals, and
wherein the base station is configured to detect said remote module
check signals at or approximately at said second prescribed
intervals.
The base station may be configured such that, when it receives a
remote module check signal, it transmits a confirmation signal, and
if this confirmation signal is received by the remote module within
a prescribed time period from the sending of the remote module
check signal, the remote module switches to said sleep mode.
The remote module is preferably configured such that, if it does
not receive the confirmation signal within the prescribed time
period, it transmits one or further check signals to be received by
the base station. The base station is preferably configured such
that, if it fails to detect one or more remote module check
signals, a resynchronisation procedure to re-establish
communication between the base station and the remote module is
initiated.
In this way, if no confirmation signal is received by the remote
module within a set time or a prescribed number of instances of
sending check signals, the resynchronisation procedure is
initiated.
Each of said first prescribed intervals may be one repeated time
interval and, preferably, each of said second prescribed intervals
may be a multiple of said first time intervals.
Preferably, if the remote module receives a signal from the base
station signifying a particular closure controller status (such as
a status indicating that a door open or close command has been
received by the controller), the remote module switches to the
operation mode.
The particular controller status may include a door opening status
in which a door opening command signal from a user operable device
has been received by the controller, and a door closing status in
which a door closing command signal from a user operable device has
been received by the controller.
The remote module may be configured to transmit a signal to said
base station concerning the status of the lock, to be stored by the
base station as a particular lock status (locked or unlocked
status). The lock status may be checked on receipt of a command
signal before the controller can operate the closure.
In one preferred form, the lock is configured to drive between a
locked and an unlocked (released) condition, wherein, when the lock
departs from its locked or its unlocked condition, a signal is
transmitted by said remote module to said base station and stored
as a different lock status (intermediate status).
Preferably, the lock is provided with a manual lock operator, i.e.
means for selective manual operation of the lock between said
locked and unlocked condition.
The manual lock operator may be a handle which operates the lock
mechanism, or may be a push button or switch whose operation
instructs the lock to operate the lock mechanism. For example, each
operation of said push button or switch may move the lock into its
locked condition, if it is unlocked, or into its unlocked
condition, if it is locked.
The system may be configured such that, if the manual lock operator
is operated and the remote module is not in its operation mode, the
remote module switches into operation mode and transmits a signal
to said base station to be stored as a lock status.
As discussed above, in the operation mode, the lock mechanism
operates (e.g. the drive mechanism is activated to drive the lock
from the locked condition to the unlocked condition, and back), in
accordance with control signals received from the base station.
Once the lock is operated (e.g. driven to its required position,
either locked or unlocked), the remote module switches back to
sleep mode.
Further, the system may be configured such that, if the base
station sends a lock control signal to the remote module to operate
the lock, and does not receive a corresponding lock status update
within a prescribed time, a prescribed action is performed. This
may include sending a further lock control signal, moving the
closure in a prescribed manner, and/or providing a prescribed alert
signal to prompt further action (for example, to prompt a further
use of the user operable device to provide a command signal).
The remote module is preferably configured to transmit information
concerning the status of its power source. This information may be
received by and stored at the base station as a remote module power
status.
The control system may be configured to control two or more locks.
In one embodiment, a remote module is coupled to each lock for
independent communication with, and control by, the base station.
In another embodiment, a remote module is coupled to each lock and
the remote modules are configured in a master and slave
relationship. In this configuration, one of the remote modules on a
master lock may be configured as a master remote module, and the
remote modules on the other lock(s) may be configures as slave
remote modules. The base station may directly communicate with, and
control, the master remote module; and the master remote module may
directly communicate with, and control the slave remote
modules.
When two or more locks are used, the sending of said
synchronisation signals from the base station for each lock may be
interleaved. In other words, time allocation is used in maintaining
communication between the base station and each lock.
Alternatively, frequency or code allocation may be used.
In a further form, the present invention provides a system for a
lock for a closure, the system comprising:
a remote module having or associated with a lock mechanism for
operating the lock, the remote module having a communication unit
and a replaceable power source which powers the lock mechanism and
the communication unit; and
a base station coupled to a controller of the closure, and
configured to communicate with the communication unit,
the base station being programmed such that, when initiated, it
determines the presence of the communication unit of a remote
module in which said replaceable power source is present and
establishes a synchronised communication link therewith.
In a further form, the invention provides the system as defined in
any of the aspects above, in combination with a closure system
(such as a garage door system), to enable locking of said closure
in a closed position by way of the lock mechanism.
In a further form, the present invention provides a lock for use
with the system as defined in any of the aspects above, for
operating to lock a closure provided in a fixed structure, the lock
mountable on the closure itself, for interaction with a part of the
fixed structure. The fixed structure may be a part of a track in
which the closure travels, or may be a wall or other structure in
which the closure is formed, or may be a strike plate fixed to the
track or other structure.
In a further form, the present invention provides a closure system
including two locks for use with the system defined above, the
locks for use on opposed sides of a closure to prevent movement of
the closure, wherein the locks are of like form and one is inverted
so that its lock mechanism operates for locking action in the
opposite direction to the other.
In a further form, the present invention provides a lock for a
closure, the closure running in or along a track between an open
and a closed position, and the lock having an operating mechanism
for driving the lock between a locked condition and an unlocked
condition, wherein the lock is configured for direct mounting to
said track by a mounting system and to selectively prevent movement
of the closure, such that said mounting system does not interfere
with the running of the closure in the track.
This allows the lock to be used in situations where mounting it to
a wall or other structure is not convenient or practicable.
Where the track takes the form of a channel on the inside of which
the edges of the closure run, the lock is preferably mounted to the
outside of the channel. The track may include an aperture through
which a bolt of the lock passes, so to prevent movement of or to
interact with the closure. Preferably, a suitable shaped strike
plate is provided on the closure for cooperation with said
bolt.
In a further form, the present invention provides a lock for a
roller door closure, the roller door having a corrugated form and
running in or along a track between an open and a closed position,
and the lock having an operating mechanism for driving the lock
between a locked condition and an unlocked condition, wherein the
lock is configured for mounting on or adjacent to said track to
selectively prevent movement of the closure, the lock having a bolt
which in said locked condition is positioned between corrugations
of the roller door.
Garage doors and other closures operate in what can be very tough
environments, exposed to the extremes of outdoor environments, and
wired devices are relatively vulnerable to such conditions.
Moreover, wired devices require relatively costly and complex
installation and maintenance, and give rise to significant
inconveniences. On the other hand, wireless devices require
independent power sources which need to be replaced regularly.
Against this background, the present invention provides the
possibility of reliable and secure wireless locks.
In particular, the invention affords very high reliability against
interference, whilst greatly limiting the power consumption
requirements of the wireless elements.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For a more complete understanding of the present invention, and the
advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following
descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings,
in which:
FIG. 1 illustrates an installed garage roller door system;
FIG. 2A is a first, rear, view of a lock assembly, partially
disassembled, configured for control by a control system according
to an embodiment of the invention;
FIG. 2B is a second, front, view of the lock assembly of FIG. 2A
(with cover housing removed);
FIG. 2C illustrates the mounting of the lock assembly of FIGS. 2A
and 2B to a track of the garage roller door system shown in FIG.
1;
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a control system for the lock
assembly of FIGS. 2A to 2C according to an embodiment of the
invention;
FIG. 4 is a logic flow diagram illustrating the synchronisation
process implemented for the communication unit of the control
system shown in FIG. 3;
FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating the synchronisation process
implemented for the base station of the control system shown in
FIG. 3;
FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process
implemented for the control system shown in FIG. 3 when a door
close command is received;
FIG. 7 is a flow diagram illustrating an example process
implemented for the control system shown in FIG. 3 when a door open
command is received;
FIGS. 8A to 8D illustrate a further embodiment of the lock
assembly, including the mounting of the assembly to a sectional
overhead garage door;
FIG. 9 illustrates a further embodiment of the lock assembly,
similarly mounted to a garage door; and
FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate alternative ways of mounting the lock
assembly of FIG. 9 to a garage roller door track.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Door Drive System
The roller door system 10 of FIG. 1 includes a drum-mounted roller
door 20 on a support carried by an axle 30 mounted to two end
brackets 40. At one end of axle 30 is mounted an operator 50
including a motor (not shown) and a drive train (not shown), as
well as an electronic controller 60. Operator 50 is provided with a
disengagement pull handle 70 to allow disengagement of the drive
train from roller door 20 if manual operation of the door is
required at any time.
Although FIG. 1 shows a roller door system, it will be understood
that the concept described herein is equally applicable to overhead
doors (such as tracked tilt-up and sectional doors), shutters,
curtains, gates or any other type of movable closure or
barrier.
Controller 60 includes one or more control boards with programmable
microcircuitry to manage the various functions of the system, and
includes or is coupled to a radio receiver for receiving radio
control commands from a user's remote control transmitter device
(96, FIG. 3).
Opposed roller tracks 80a, 80b guide the travel of the door 20
between open and closed positions. A wireless lock assembly 84 is
mounted to or adjacent to one of the roller tracks 80b and a second
wireless lock assembly 82 mounted to or adjacent to the opposed
roller track 80a. RF wireless communication between a base station
connected to or integrated into controller 60 and the lock
assemblies allows operation of the locks--under the control system
of the invention--to selectively allow and prevent movement of door
20.
In discussing of the control system, the description below concerns
an embodiment in which a single lock assembly 84 is used. However,
it will be understood that the control system may also be
implemented with two lock assemblies 82, 84 (or with any number of
lock assemblies) in a similar manner in which a base station
communicates with and controls operation of both lock assemblies
independently (discussed further below). Alternatively, the lock
assemblies 82, 84 may be arranged in a master/slave configuration
in which a base station directly communicates with and controls one
of the lock assemblies 84, and the lock assembly 84 communicates
with and controls the second lock assembly 82.
Lock Assembly
As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, lock assembly 84 includes a locking
bolt 200 driven by a motor 202 via a rack and pinion gear assembly
204. Lock assembly 84 includes a base part 85 which provides the
rear of the lock assembly, configured to support the components
described below, base part 85 including bores 302, 303 allowing
mounting of the assembly in different configuration, as discussed
further below.
As illustrated in FIG. 2A, a pinion gear 208 is mounted to the
output shaft 206 of motor 202, to engage with a first rack gear 210
mounted to run in a linear slot 216 and fixedly connected to the
locking bolt 200, and a second rack gear 212, mounted to run in a
further, parallel linear slot 218, is provided with a manual
override handle 214 which projects to the front of the assembly
through a slot 224 (FIG. 2B). The manual override handle 214 is
slidable between opposite ends 220, 222 of slot 224. The first rack
gear 210 and the second rack gear 212 are mounted on opposing sides
of the pinion gear 208 such that rotation of the pinion gear 208
causes linear movement of the first and second rack gears 210, 212
in mutually opposed directions within their respective slots 216,
218.
With reference to FIG. 2A, when the motor 202 is activated to
rotate the pinion gear 208 in a clockwise direction, the locking
bolt 200 is extended and thus moved into its locked position. At
the same time, the second rack gear 212 is moved in an opposite
direction causing the handle 214 to slide to end 222 of the slot
224. Conversely, when the motor 202 is activated to rotate the
pinion gear 208 in an anti-clockwise direction, the locking bolt
200 is withdrawn and thus moved into its unlocked position (not
shown). At the same time, the second rack gear 212 is moved in an
opposite direction causing the handle 214 to slide to opposite end
220 of the slot 224.
When it is desired to manually operate the locking bolt 200
(generally, only in emergency situations, such as in conditions of
power failure or a dead battery), handle 214 can be moved between
the ends 220, 222 of the slot 224 to move the locking bolt 200 (via
pinion gear 208) between its unlocked and locked positions.
As shown in FIG. 2B, limit switches 226, 228 are provided at
opposite ends of a slot 232 to detect the extreme positions of
locking bolt 200. More specifically, the locking bolt 200 includes
a radial protrusion 230 received within and configured to travel
along slot 232, protrusion 230 fixed to bolt 200. As bolt 200 moves
to its extended (i.e. locked) position, protrusion 230 moves to one
end of slot 232 to activate limit switch 226. As bolt 200 moves to
its withdrawn (i.e. unlocked) position, protrusion 230 moves to the
opposite end of slot 232 to activate limit switch 228. The
activation of limit switches 226 and 228 is used to provide an
electrical status signal to indicate if locking bolt 200 is in its
locked or unlocked position. If neither limit switch is activated,
bolt 200 is deemed to be in a third, intermediate, position.
As FIG. 2A shows, a rear cover plate 219 is provided, to be
fastened by screws to base part 85 of the lock assembly, so to
cover and protect the mechanical components of the lock. Front
housing 236 (not shown in FIG. 2B) is discussed further below.
The lock assembly 84 further includes a recessed portion 234,
accessed from the front of the device, for housing one or more
printed circuit boards (PCBs) and an on-board power source
(2.times.C batteries). The PCBs provide lock control and drive
circuitry 94 for operating motor 202 and a remote communications
unit 92 for communicating with a base station transceiver 102
associated with controller 60, as discussed further below with
reference to FIG. 3.
Mounting of Lock Assembly to Door
FIG. 2C shows a cross sectional view of roller door 20, roller
track 80b and garage wall 22, the section taken above the position
of mounting of the lock assembly. The lock assembly 84 includes a
removable outer front housing 236 which covers and protects the
components shown in FIG. 2B including batteries and PCBs, and is
mounted directly to the outer lateral side of door track 80b, by
way of screws 239 passing from within track 80 b through apertures
in the track to engage with the two lateral threaded bores 302 of
base part 85 of the lock assembly. A further aperture is provided
in track 80b through which bolt 200 can pass. When the lock is in
its locked position as shown, bolt 200 extends through an opening
in a strike plate 238 mounted to door 20, to thereby prevent
movement of the door. It will be appreciated that the positioning,
shape and size of the heads of screws 239 is selected to avoid
interference with the movement of the side edges of door 20 in
track 80b.
Alternatively, lock assembly 84 may be mounted to wall 22 by bolts
passing through the two bores 303 normal to the plate of base part
85 of the assembly. Again, an aperture is then provided in track
80b for travel of bolt 200.
Typically, the lock assembly 84 may be arranged approximately 1-2 m
above the floor so that the emergency manual override handle 214 of
the lock is within easy reach of a user, and for convenience of
changing the batteries and other maintenance as required. As will
be understood, removal of cover housing 236 allows access to the
batteries and to the handle 214.
When used with an overhead door, such as a sectional or tilt up
door having lateral wheels engaging in a track to guide the
movement of the door, the lock may be positioned such that, when
the door is closed, bolt 200 engages just above a wheel, preferably
the lowermost wheel. In this form, no strike plate or other
addition or modification to the door assembly is required.
When used with a roller door, locking may be accomplished without
the need for a strike plate on the door, as the lock bolt when
extended is positioned between corrugations of the door curtain. An
example is illustrated in FIG. 10, with the lock assembly
positioned on the outside of track 80b, laterally of the track
(mounted either to track 80b or to wall 22, such that bolt 2200
projects between corrugations of the door curtain, so allowing only
very limited movement of door 20. FIG. 11 illustrates an
alternative embodiment, with the lock assembly mounted to the front
face of track 80b (either directly, or by way of a mounting bracket
fixed to wall 22), such that the bolt moves in a direction normal
to the plane of door 20. Once again, when bolt 2200 is extended, it
projects between two successive corrugations of the door curtain,
so allowing only very limited movement of door 20.
Lock Control System
As diagrammatically shown in FIG. 3, the components of the control
system 240 for the lock include a remote module 90 and a base
station 100, the latter coupled to the door operator controller 60.
The remote module 90 is provided by the PCBs housed in recessed
portion 234 of the lock assembly 84, and comprises a communications
unit 92 in the form of an RF transceiver with microprocessor
control. Remote module 90 further comprises the lock circuitry 94
for operating the motor 202 based on instructions received by the
communications unit 92.
The controller 60 of door operator 50 is connected by lead 52 to a
base station 100, which comprises an RF transceiver 102 with
microprocessor control and an antenna 103. RF transceivers 92 and
102 are designed to communicate with one another by way of a
suitable communications protocol, as will be understood by the
skilled reader.
It will be understood that base station 100 may alternatively be
integrated into door operator 50, for example the microprocessor of
the RF transceiver 102 may be integrated into operator controller
60.
Hence, although in accordance with this description the control
logic for communicating with and issuing control commands to remote
module 90 is programmed into base station 100, it could equally be
programmed wholly or partly into controller 60.
In a further alternative embodiment, the system may be provided
with an optional wired lock assembly 84' for installation in the
event that there is unacceptably high RF interference at the
installation location.
The wired lock assembly 84' comprises a remote module 90' that
connects via a core interface link 118 to door controller 60.
Signals between controller 60 and remote module 90' therefore
travel directly via link 118 rather than wirelessly between base
station 100 and remote module 90, but otherwise the operation of
this variant is identical to the control system for a wireless lock
assembly 84 as described herein.
As discussed in further detail below, in order to minimise power
consumption, the remote module 90 of the lock assembly is
configured to have (at least) three modes of power usage, namely:
an operation mode in which the communication unit 92 is operational
for two-way communication with RF transceiver 102 and lock
circuitry 94 is operational (for conditions in which the lock bolt
can be driven by motor 202 between its locked and unlocked
positions); a standby mode in which communication unit 92 is active
only to receive signals from RF transceiver 102, and a sleep mode
in which communication unit 92 is inactive.
In response to a command signal (e.g. from a user operable remote
control transmitter 96) received by the controller 60 to open or
close the door 20, the transceiver 102 transmits a signal to switch
the remote module 90 into its the operation mode. In the operation
mode, in accordance with control signals received by communications
unit 92, the lock circuitry 94 operates motor 202 to move the
locking bolt 20 into its locked or unlocked positions. Detailed
operation of the remote module 90 in the operation mode will be
explained in further detail with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.
In operation mode, lock circuitry 94 switches power to motor 202 in
the appropriate direction to drive bolt 200 between its first,
locked position and its second, unlocked position. In this
embodiment the bolt has a travel time of 700 ms.
When the door is locked (i.e. the bolt is in its first, locked
position), the base station has the status of the lock flagged as
STATUS 1. When the user sends a command to open the door to
controller 60, an UNLOCK signal sent by base station 100 is
received by communications unit 92, lock circuitry 94 commences
operation, and the de-energising of microswitch 226 results in a
signal being sent from communications unit 92 to base station 100,
which logs the status of the lock assembly is in its third,
intermediate position (STATUS 3). When it reaches its second,
unlocked position microswitch 228 is energised and a signal is sent
from communications unit 92 to base station 100, which logs the
status of the lock (STATUS 2). Remote module 90 then switches into
non-operation mode. Controller 60 is then able to drive the door to
its open position.
However if that (unlocked position) signal has not been received
within 700 ms (or a slightly longer time period, to allow for any
signal transmission delay and processing and some tolerance in the
operation of the lock mechanism) this is deemed to be an error, and
controller 60 is not able to drive the door. Again, remote module
90 switches into non-operation mode. A prescribed alert or warning
can be issued by the controller (e.g. the operator sounds an
audible beep). If a further (door open) command signal is received
from the user, the remote module switches into its operation mode,
and the operation of the lock (to drive it into its unlocked
position) is attempted again. Alternatively, the system can be
programmed to command the lock to attempt to unlock more than once
without receipt of a new command signal, if desired.
Conversely, when the door is unlocked (i.e. the bolt is in its
second, unlocked position, and the door is open), the base station
has the status of the lock flagged as STATUS 2. When the user sends
a command to close the door to controller 60 (or an autoclose
function operates), the lock status is checked, and controller 60
drives the door to its closed position. When it reaches that
position (by attainment of the door closed limit position,
signalled to the controller 60 e.g. by the door's position encoder
system), a LOCK signal is sent by base station 100 to
communications unit 92, lock circuitry 94 commences operation, and
the de-energising of microswitch 228 results in a signal being sent
from communications unit 92 to base station 100, which logs the
status of the lock assembly is in its third, intermediate position
(STATUS 3). When it reaches its first, locked position microswitch
226 is energised and a signal is sent from communications unit 92
to base station 100, which logs the status of the lock (STATUS 1).
Remote module 90 then switches into non-operation mode.
Again, if that (locked position) signal has not been received
within 700 ms (or a slightly longer time period, to allow for
signal transmission and processing and some tolerance in operation
of the lock mechanism) this is deemed to be an error. Again, remote
module 90 switches into non-operation mode. A prescribed alert or
warning can be issued by the controller (e.g. the operator sounds
an audible beep). Only when a further door open command signal is
received from the user does the remote module switch into its
operation mode. A further door close command signal does not result
in a further attempt to drive the lock into its locked
position.
Alternatively, if desired, the system can be programmed such that a
further door close command signal does result in the lock again
attempting to move into its locked position, or such that it
attempts to lock more than once without receipt of a new command
signal.
Thus, to minimise power consumption, the remote module 90 is only
in its operation mode when operation of the lock is required as a
result of a user command, or when it detects that the position of
bolt 200 has changed as a result of manual operation. Remote module
90 has built into it the following logic: Logic functions which
enable it to respond as required to received signals so to drive
motor 202 via lock circuitry 94. Logic functions to receive signal
from microswitches 226 and 228 and transmit those signals by way of
communications module 92 to base station 100. Logic functions to
switch communications module 92 between its different modes of
operation, in accordance with the protocols discussed below.
The logic is such that, if the lock is manually operated by way of
handle 214, then (due to the operation of microswitches 226 and
228) remote unit 90 switches into operation mode to send a signal
to base station 100, which will flag the new status of the lock.
Remote unit 90 switches back into non-operation mode.
To limit power usage, the remote module 90 is not equipped with
decision-making logic to enable it to interpret the lock condition
or to take any action in response thereto; that is all done by base
station 100.
Other logic required for safe operation of the lock assembly 84 is
also provided by base station 100.
In an alternative form remote module 90 may include logic allowing
local decisions to be made regarding operation of the lock, but to
minimise power requirements this is generally not a preferred
option.
If the lock is manually operated while the door is moving this can
result in damage (for example, if the door is in the process of
closing and the lock is manually moved out of its unlocked
position). In this situation the resulting signal sent to base
station 100 to change lock status will stop the door movement, and
a suitable alert or other signal provided (e.g. the operator
provides a number of audible beeps to indicate the interference to
the operation of the door). On receipt of a further command signal,
the lock is moved into its unlocked position and door travel can
continues.
If the door is locked, and the lock is manually operated into its
unlocked condition, then the system is not programmed to attempt to
re-lock the door. This situation could arise when the door operator
is not functional (e.g. in a power outage) and the user wishes to
disengage the door drive and manually open the door. In this
situation, subsequent locking will only happen once the door has
been operated again and returned to its closed position.
Further, when the controller is accessed to run diagnostics (i.e.
by a technician), then the system is programmed to move the lock
into its unlocked position and maintain it in that position until
the diagnostics mode is exited, as the technician may wish to
manoeuvre the door (e.g. to reset limit positions) without
hindrance of door locking.
When not in its operation mode, the remote module 90 switches
between the sleep mode and the standby mode (as described in
further detail below with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5). In the
non-operation mode, power consumption of the lock assembly 84 is
minimised, so to conserve battery life.
The battery voltage of lock assembly 84 is transmitted by way of a
coded signal to base station transceiver 102 and relayed to
controller 60 as a BATTERY STATUS value whenever remote module 90
switches into operation mode. If the battery voltage drops below a
prescribed level, the BATTERY STATUS value is set at LOW, and an
appropriate alert provided by the operator (e.g. the operator light
executes a prescribed sequence or number of flashes (and/or audible
alert) at the end of each door operation). If desired, the system
may be programmed such that the door operator is disabled (i.e.
further driving of the door other than by manual operation will be
prevented until the batteries are replaced).
Further, controller 60 may be programmed such that, if an attempt
is made to use it to operate door 20 when there is no communication
between base station 100 and lock assembly 84, the door will not
operate, and a suitable signal or alert may be provided by the
operator or to the user by another means.
In accordance with the invention and the communications protocol
used and described in detail below, remote module 90 of the lock
assembly has three modes of power consumption, namely: an operation
mode (highest power consumption), in which communication unit 92 is
operational to send and receive signals to and from RF transceiver
102, and in which lock circuitry 94 is operational, such that lock
bolt 200 can be driven by motor 202 between its locked and unlocked
positions; a non-operation mode (lower power consumption, `standby
mode`), in which communications unit 92 is only able to receive
signals from RF transceiver 102; and a further non-operation mode
(lowest power consumption, `sleep mode`), in which communication
unit 92 is inactive, with only its system watchdog timer consuming
power.
TABLE-US-00001 Operation mode Two-way communication by unit 92 Lock
circuitry 94 can operate Non-operation mode - standby Unit 92 able
to receive signals only Lock circuitry 94 non-operational
Non-operation mode - sleep Unit 92 inactive (watchdog timer only)
Lock circuitry 94 non-operational
Communications Protocol Between Base Station and Remote Module
When not in its operation mode, a short burst coded synchronisation
signal (having an on-air duration of about 50 .mu.s) is transmitted
in a suitable RF band from base station transceiver 102 at a
regular interval (100 ms), and RF transceiver 92 is switched from
the sleep mode into the standby mode for a short period at that
same interval in order to monitor that synchronisation signal. When
the synchronisation signal is received, the wireless system is
therefore assured that remote module 90 is in communication with
the base station 100, and the microprocessor of RF transceiver 92
adjusts its internal clock data in accordance with the termination
of the short burst synchronisation signal, to avoid any timing
synchronisation drift relative to the internal clock of the
microprocessor of the base station transceiver. RF transceiver 92
then switches off, toggling the wireless system back into sleep
mode until the next scheduled transmission. In this way, remote
module 90 continuously retains its synchronisation with base
station 100, without having to transmit any signals.
Having regard to the duration of signal transmissions used in the
preferred embodiment, the effective timing of a signal transmission
(Tx)/receipt (Rx) is about 400 .mu.s. For signal receipt, this
includes time for tuning the relevant transceiver to a specified
frequency (taking about 130 .mu.s). In addition, at least about 25
.mu.s either side of a transmission may be incurred due to time
shifting issues. Further time may be needed for longer signals.
Similar issues apply with regard to signal transmissions which need
to include additional time to account for the on-air duration of 50
.mu.s (the duration generally used for all transmissions), plus
other relevant provisions.
The operative interaction between the RF transceiver 92 and the
base station transceiver 102 is described below with reference to
FIGS. 4 and 5 which show respective logic algorithms (at remote
module, logic 300 and at the base station, logic 400 respectively)
of the process.
FIG. 4 diagrammatically shows logic algorithm 300 implemented by RF
transceiver 92 for carrying out the process of this embodiment of
the invention. Algorithm 300 comprises two main sub-processes (305
and 360) which define core operating procedures of the RF
transceiver 92 when in sleep mode. Sub-process 305 represents the
primary iterative synchronisation maintenance procedure carried out
every 100 ms (referred to as `Delay 5`) between the base station
transceiver 102 and RF transceiver 92, and sub-process 360
represents a protective resynchronisation procedure (referred to
herein as `forced protective mode`, or FPM) executed following
completion of a predefined number of iterations of sub-process 305
(in this embodiment, following completion of the 20th iteration of
sub-process 305 triggered by 338), or as a default protective
resynchronisation procedure when scheduled communications from the
base station 100 are not timely received.
Sub-process 305 begins at event 310 where receipt of the short
burst coded synchronisation signal transmitted from the base
station 102 is monitored by RF transceiver module 92. Awaking for
monitoring of the synchronisation signal commences a timer (`Delay
6`--a time period of 40 ms) and causes incremental adjustment of
counter `N` (315) and initialisation of a binary switch `M` (320).
In the present context, counter N represents a cycle counter which
is increased incrementally once per iteration of sub-process 305,
and binary switch M is used to control the desired direction of
sub-process 305 in the event a synchronisation procedure was
successfully completed on the 20th cycle (detailed further
below).
On successful receipt (310) of the coded synchronisation signal
from the base station transceiver 102, assessment event 325 serves
to validate the signal received and confirm that the base station
100 and the remote module 90 are indeed synchronised. If
favourable, the internal clock of RF transceiver 92 is adjusted
(330) so as to be in synchronisation with that of the base station
100 in accordance with the signal timing. If event 325 is unable to
confirm receipt of the synchronisation signal, sub-process 360 is
executed and active protective resynchronisation between the base
station 100 and remote module 90 is realised (detailed further
below).
Once confirmation of synchronisation is completed, RF transceiver
92 tests to determine whether the current cycle is in the 20th
iteration (i.e. N=20) and whether a scheduled protective
synchronisation test (see discussion on forced protective mode
(FPM) below) has just been performed (i.e. M=1). In accordance with
the result of assessment event 335, the system toggles back into
sleep mode (340) for the remainder of the current 100 ms interval
before waking again ready to receive the next expected
synchronisation signal from base station transceiver 102. If the
current iteration completes the 20th cycle, counter N is reset to
zero (event 340).
The coded synchronisation signal is a 64 bit sequence that contains
data identifying the base station transceiver and the status of
controller 60. In accordance with the status, this signal may cause
the wireless system to switch into operation mode, if the status
indicates that the door is closing/opening, that a close/open
signal has been received, or that the lock status has changed (see
FIG. 6 and FIG. 7).
Successive synchronisation signals are sent in accordance with a
quasi-random frequency hopping pattern known to both base station
100 and RF transceiver 92. Transmission in accordance with this
pattern provides a constant guard against radio interference, thus
minimising the chance of communication with the wireless system
being lost. Such frequency hopping techniques per se are well known
in the field of RF communication, and will not be further described
here.
If, due to radio interference, no synchronisation signal is
received by RF transceiver 92 at the due time, event 325 causes
sub-process 360 to be executed. In this process, transceiver 92
transmits (345) an RF signal to base station 100 requesting a
further synchronisation signal be sent. This is a brief (e.g. 50
.mu.s) coded signal, including information identifying the RF
transceiver, and is similar to the same short burst coded signal
initially sent at commencement of the cycle. If a synchronisation
signal is then duly received by RF transceiver 92 (event 350), this
confirms interference-free communication, sub-process 360 is exited
and the internal clock data of remote module 90 is adjusted as
detailed above, and the wireless system completes sub-process 305
before switching back into sleep mode. If no synchronisation signal
is received in response to the request signal 345, then a further
request signal is sent by RF transceiver 92. This process is
repeated until expiry of Delay 6. It will be appreciated that this
criterion could also be implemented in respect of a maximum
iteration count of cycles of sub-process 360. If no synchronisation
signal is received by the end of this period (or number of
prescribed iterations), this is deemed to indicate that
synchronisation has been broken. At this point, base station
transceiver 102 and RF transceiver 92 are programmed to commence a
resynchronisation process (event 370), in order to re-establish
synchronisation therebetween.
Resynchronisation (370) of wireless systems is generally known to
the skilled reader, and will not be described in specific detail
here. Importantly, resynchronisation involves the base station
providing to the RF module data regarding timing and the frequency
pattern to be employed for the frequency hopping. By way of brief
explanation, the resynchronisation process 370 involves the base
station 100 transmitting bursts of 8 RF pulses at the same
frequency for about 40 .mu.s, then listening for the following 20
.mu.s. Each pulse has a specific byte for its identification. The
frequency is changed for every consecutive burst in a random
manner. The remote module 90 listens every 120 ms for about 20
.mu.s at a random frequency. If the base station 100 and the remote
module 90 frequencies coincide (i.e. during the time the base
station transmits and the remote module 90 is listening), the
module 90 synchronises with the base station and sends a
confirmation signal during the interval that the base station is
listening.
Once resynchronisation has been successfully completed, the
wireless system switches back into sleep mode to continue the cycle
described above.
It will be understood that the technique described above provides
an effective way to ensure communication between the base station
100 and the wireless system, whilst keeping power usage of the
components of the wireless system to a minimum. However, it will be
noted that in accordance with this algorithm, during periods other
than in operation mode, the base station 100 may never receive
signals from RF transceiver 92. Whilst this may indicate that the
synchronisation signals are being duly received by the RF
transceiver 92 and that all is well, there is a possibility that in
fact communication has been lost due to interference or failure of
the wireless system, or that synchronisation has been lost. For
that reason, the system is configured to switch into a forced
protective mode (FPM) every 20 synchronisation cycles (or other
appropriate prescribed interval). Thus, on completion of the 20th
iteration of sub-process 305, assessment event 335 will affirm
thereby causing a FPM cycle 338 to commence.
A core component of the FPM mode 338 is thus sub-process 360. In
this mode, RF transceiver 92 transmits (at event 345) a short burst
coded FPM signal, while base station 100 is programmed to detect
that FPM signal (events 415/420) at that time over a set period. If
the FPM signal is detected (see affirmation of event 420 in FIG.
4), the base station 100 responds (at event 425 in FIG. 5) with a
prescribed FPM confirmation signal. On receipt of this confirmation
signal, the system knows (i.e. by way of assessment event 325) that
the communication link is open and synchronised, and the continuous
synchronisation process is continued as described above.
In one form, the FPM cycle (338) is provoked by the RF transceiver
92 being programmed to wake up, on the 20th cycle, at a time to
miss the transmission (405) from the base station 100. As such,
non-receipt of the transmission (determined at 325) provokes
execution of sub-process 360 (i.e. FPM mode). Alternatively, the
base station 100 may be programmed to miss its regular transmission
thereby provoking execution of sub-process 360.
As detailed above, if the FPM confirmation signal 350 is not
received by the RF transceiver 92, assessment event 325 will fail
causing a further short burst FPM signal to be sent to base station
transceiver 102 for confirmation. Sub-process 360 repeats until the
expiry of the prescribed time period (Delay 6) on repeated
unsuccessful validation at assessment event 325 (measured from the
time of the expected transmission by base station 100 at event
310), at which point the system will automatically initiate a
complete resynchronisation process 370.
Each iteration of sub-process 360 tests to determine at event 380
whether a scheduled FPM cycle is in progress (and has not been
commenced following failure to receive the schedule synchronisation
signal outside of the FPM procedure). If so, counter N is reset to
zero (event 385), and binary switch M is set to unity. If
assessment event 325 confirms successful receipt (at 350) of the
confirmation signal from the base station 100, the internal clock
of RF transceiver 92 will be adjusted accordingly and sub-process
305 will be allowed to continue. It will be understood that
resetting counter N to zero (385) and equating binary switch M to
unity (390) during sub-process 360 on the 20th cycle ensures that
FPM is not recommenced when successfully re-entering sub-process
305 following completion of the scheduled FPM cycle.
FIG. 5 shows the logic algorithm 400 which represents the process
programmed into transceiver 102 of the wireless base station 100
every 100 ms (`Delay 3` in FIG. 5). Each synchronisation
maintenance cycle begins with base station 100 transmitting the
short burst coded synchronisation signal at event 405. Following
transmission (405), sub-process 407 is entered which serves to test
the current state of counter N to determine where in the
synchronisation maintenance regime the current iteration is. It
will be understood that the value of counter N and binary switch M
dictates (at event 435) when the base station 100 is to revert to a
full resynchronisation regime (event 370).
The base station listens (at event 415) for a request signal sent
from the remote module 84. As discussed above, such a signal (see
event 345 in FIG. 4) is expected every 20 polling cycles as part of
the FPM cycle. Successful receipt of such a signal is tested for at
event 420.
The base station 100 continues to listen (415) for the signal until
the expiry of 40 ms (`Delay 1` in FIG. 4). Once expired, the base
station 100 assumes synchronisation with the transceiver module 84
remains intact and prepares to repeat the transmission (405) as
soon as Delay 3 expires. The latter described process typifies
operation of base station 100 for a standard iteration of
sub-process 305, i.e. when N.noteq.20. During these iterations,
switch M remains zero signifying that the current cycle is a
non-scheduled FPM cycle. Counter N, being non-zero during this
time, causes event 435 to fail thereby allowing the process to
proceed to the next polling cycle.
The above described process continues until the 20th cycle at which
time a scheduled FPM cycle is executed by sub-process 305 (by way
of event 338). As described above, during non-FPM cycles of
sub-process 305, if synchronisation remains intact, no
communication signal is received by the wireless base station 100
from the remote module 90. During an FPM cycle, assessment event
420 will confirm whether a communication signal from remote module
90 (at event 345 shown in FIG. 4) is received by base station 100.
If receipt is confirmed, binary switch M is set to unity and the
base station transceiver 102 transmits (at event 425) a
confirmation signal to transceiver module 84 (`Delay 2` in FIG. 5).
This signal is the same short burst coded synchronisation signal
originally transmitted at event 405. If Delay 1 (about 40 ms) has
not yet expired, events 415 and 420 are revisited but event 420
will fail given that remote module 90 has, following successful
confirmation of receipt of the transmission (at event 350) at
assessment event 325 (shown in FIG. 4), returned normally to
complete the current iteration of sub-process 305. Thus, despite
the wireless base station 100 continuing to iterate through
sub-process 450 until the expiry of Delay 1, it will eventually
proceed to assessment event 435 and fail (i.e. M=1, N=20) so as to
continue to the next cycle as normal.
If synchronisation is lost, this will be detected during a
scheduled FPM cycle. Here, the synchronisation signal transmitted
by the wireless base station 100 at event 425 will not be received
by the remote module 90, and will provoke a further iteration of
sub-process 360 to be performed by the RF remote transceiver 92.
Continued requests will be made by the remote module 90 (at event
345), all of which will be received by the wireless base station
100 (i.e. if no interference exists). Sub-processes 360 and 450
will both continue until respective Delays 6 and 1 expire (at
events 365 and 430 respectively) at which point the remote module
90 will leave sub-process 360 and default to the programmed
resynchronisation regime 370 (and so will cease sending signal
requests). At this stage, counter N and binary switch M of process
400 will equal 20 and unity respectively, which will cause
assessment event 435 to fail and provoke a further (and final)
iteration of process 400 to commence. When sub-process 407 is next
executed, sub-process 407 will test counter N and conclude that the
20th cycle is in progress so causing binary switch M to be set to
zero (so setting both parameters to ensure that event 435 is
affirmed). As the remote module 84 has by this time ceased
transmission of any further request signals, assessment event 420
will fail (ensuring that M is not set to unity) and, on the expiry
of Delay 1, cause affirmation of assessment event 435 thereby
provoking the base station 100 to enter the programmed
resynchronisation regime 370. It will be appreciated that
sub-process 407 could be structured in a number of ways to ensure
that counter N and binary switch M are adjusted appropriately to
allow algorithms 300/400 to operate as described. For completeness
of the above description of algorithms 300 and 400 shown in FIG. 4
and FIG. 5, Delay 1 and Delay 6 are equal, and relate to the
protective loop of the forced protection mode (for example, 40 ms).
Both Delay 3 and Delay 5 are equal and relate to the frequency of
synchronisation maintenance (100 ms). Delay 2 is equal to the
duration of the set transmission burst at event 425. It will be
appreciated that the values of each delay could be readily varied
depending on the desired system response requirements.
As described above, the system is forced into forced protective
mode (FPM) after each 20 cycles of 100 ms, in order to ensure that
base station 100 does not lose contact with remote module 90. In
protective mode, communication unit 92 transmits a signal to be
received by base station 100. If this signal is not received
(despite repeated attempts via sub-process 360) within 40 ms (Delay
6), then the system has failed in protective mode and switches into
resynchronisation mode (event 370).
If, despite the above-described synchronisation protocol,
protective FPM operation and attempt(s) at resynchronisation 370,
communication between the remote module and the base station is
lost, the control system disables further operation of the door
operator and provides a prescribed error message or warning for the
attention of the user.
Examples of Operation of Control System and Lock Operation
FIGS. 6 and 7 show respective algorithms 500 and 600 which
illustrate an implementation of the interaction between the
controller 60, base station 100 and remote module 90 when the
system switches to the operation mode, e.g. when a user instructs
controller 60 to open or close the door. These figures do not
illustrate the operation realised in the event of manual
intervention of lock assembly 84, which is discussed above.
FIG. 6 illustrates method 500 for operating the control system 240
when a door close command is received.
At step 502, a door closing command is received at the controller
60, for example, from a user operable transmitter 96, or another
user operable control device. The status of controller 60 is
therefore switched to door closing status.
At step 504, in response to door closing command, controller 60
notifies base station transceiver 102, which in turn forwards a
first activation signal to wake up remote module 90. The controller
checks the lock status, and if it determines that it is not in its
unlocked position, the first activation signal is encoded with a
command for unlocking lock assembly 84.
At step 506, the first activation signal, once received by
transceiver 92, switches remote module 90 into the operation mode,
allowing two-way communication with the base station.
If the lock is in its unlocked position, the process jumps to step
514.
At step 508, lock circuitry 94 operates to drive the motor 202 in a
predetermined direction to move the lock bolt 200 into the unlocked
position until limit switch 228 is activated.
At step 510, in response to limit switch 228 being activated,
communication unit 92 sends a confirmation signal to base station
transceiver 102 which updates the lock status. This signal thus
confirms that locking bolt 200 is withdrawn into its unlocked
position.
At step 512, base station transceiver 102 passes a confirmation
signal to controller 60. This signal indicates that it is safe to
start closing door 20.
At step 514, controller 60 initiates closing operation of door
20.
At step 516, remote module 90 returns to non-operation mode. As
discussed above, communication unit 92 sends a suitable signal to
base station transceiver 102 during the closing operation of door
20 if bolt 200 is manually moved from its unlocked position, and
the operation of door 20 is interrupted.
At step 518, door 20 reaches its fully closed position. In
response, controller 60 sends a signal to base station transceiver
102.
At step 520, in response to this signal, transceiver 102 forwards a
second activation signal to communication unit 92 to switch the
remote module 90 into the operation mode. The second activation
signal is encoded with a command for locking lock assembly 84.
At step 522, lock circuitry 94 receives the lock command and
operates motor 202 until limit switch 226 is activated (i.e. the
locking bolt 200 is fully extended in its locked position through
the striker plate 238). This results in a signal sent to base
station 100 and the lock status is updated.
At step 524, remote module 90 returns to non-operation mode.
FIG. 7 illustrates method 600 for operating the control system 240
when a door open command is received.
At step 602, a door open command is received at controller 60, for
example, from a user operable transmitter 96, or another user
operable control. The status of controller 60 is changed to a door
opening status.
At step 604, in response to door opening command, controller 60
notifies the base station transceiver 102, which in turn forwards
the first activation signal to wake up remote module 90. The first
activation signal is encoded with a command for unlocking lock
assembly 84, if the lock status confirms that the lock is not in
its unlocked position.
At step 606, the first activation signal, once received by
transceiver 92 of remote module 90, switches the remote module 90
into the operation mode.
At step 608, lock circuitry 94 operates to drive motor 202 in a
predetermined direction to move lock bolt 200 into the unlocked
position until limit switch 228 is activated.
At step 610, in response to activation of limit switch 228,
communication unit 92 sends a signal to base station transceiver
102 to confirm that locking bolt 200 is in its unlocked position,
which updates the recorded lock status.
At step 612, base station transceiver 102 sends a confirmation
signal to controller 60. This signal indicates that it is safe to
start opening door 20.
At step 614, controller 60 initiates opening operation of door 20
until it reaches its open position.
At step 616, the remote module 90 returns to its non-operation
mode. This may happen immediately after step 610.
It will be understood from the above that wireless remote module 90
will be in its sleep mode for the majority of the time, hence
minimising power usage as much as possible. This operation is
effective because (a) wireless base station 100 and wireless lock
assembly 84 are always within range of each other (unlike, for
example, an RF remote control working with a vehicle or premises
access control unit), and (b) the base station is mains powered,
and hence its RF transceiver can be continuously monitoring for
signals from wireless lock assembly 84. Intermittent switching from
sleep mode into a standby mode to monitor synchronisation signals
from base station 100 provide continuous low power synchronisation
over the wireless link, thus assisting in minimising dangers of
interference. For a test system developed by the present applicant
in accordance with the invention, it has been calculated that under
normal usage the system will afford a battery life of five years or
more with lock assembly 84 using 2.times.C type batteries.
Remote module 90 may be programmed to return to its non-operation
mode after commencing operation of the lock drive (i.e. at steps
508 and 608), switching back into operation mode only when the
limit switch operates signifying the end of travel (or,
alternatively, after the expected travel time 700 ms), so to
consume even lower power. However, it is preferred that it remain
in operation mode during lock operation.
In an alternative to the system described above, the RF link
between base station 100 and remote module 90 of lock assembly 84
may be replaced by another form of wireless communication, such as
an IR link. This reduces problems of interference, but requires
line of sight communication, which may not be practicable in many
situations.
Remote and Network Monitoring and Control of Door Operation
The description above discusses user `door open` and `door close`
commands received by controller 60 from a remote control
transmitter, of the sort often integrated into a key fob, when used
with a garage door or gate, kept by the user conveniently in a
vehicle which uses the garage.
Alternatively, the command signals may be provided from a user
interacting with a computer application on a smartphone or other
mobile electronic device. It is becoming more common for home
access and home security systems to include functionality to allow
remote monitoring and control of different aspects by users via
network access. Applicant's copending application International
Patent Application No PCT/AU2015/050625 entitled `Remote monitoring
and control for a barrier operator` discloses such a system. The
system disclosed includes a gateway device connecting controllers
of barrier operators (i.e. one or more doors, gates, etc.) to a
computer network, the gateway device operating as a hub for the
barrier operators, via which monitoring signals and control and
command signals are routed. Once connected to the network, the
barrier operators can be remotely monitored and controlled in a
secure manner. The gateway device is configured to set up and
configure the barrier operators, to send control signals to the
barrier operators for controlling their operation, and to receive
monitoring data therefrom.
The present invention may be integrated into such a networked
monitoring and control system. As well as receiving closure
operation commands via the system, it may be used to communicate
issues, reports and alerts to users (and/or to service personnel)
via a user interface, e.g. a GUI on the user's mobile electronic
device. The user interface may provide, in addition to an
indication of door status (closing closed, opening, open), an
indication of lock status (locked, unlocked). A suitable alert may
be sent in the case of remote module 90 low battery condition,
and/or in the event of failure to unlock or lock a lock assembly
when commanded by the base station, and/or in the event of manual
operation of the lock assembly 84 triggering a change of state
signal transmitted to base station 100, in particular if such a
condition interrupts the operation of the closure.
Installation and Setup of Lock Assembly
In set up, the system is preferably configured such that the base
station automatically establishes communications with remote module
90 and thus registers the or each lock assembly 84 for use. To this
end, the lock assembly should be powered up (i.e. batteries
installed) before the closure operator is initiated. Typically, the
installer will first set up controller 60 for operation with
closure 20 (including setting the travel end limits), and will then
initiate base station 100 to set up communication with controller
60. Base station 100 will also initiate and set up synchronised
wireless communication with remote module 90, which can be realised
through initiating the synchronised communication protocol detailed
above.
Further, the system is configured such that when a base station 100
is connected to controller 60, no modification or re-initiation is
necessary, the two units are immediately able to work together. If
the lock assembly of the invention is retrofitted to (or replaced
in) an existing closure system it is necessary to re-initiate the
closure operator, and controller re-initiation is necessary if a
base station or a lock assembly 84 is removed.
Use of Multiple Locks
As discussed above, the system of the invention can be used with
two or more lock assemblies, and each one may communicate
independently with the base station (or, alternatively, the remote
modules may be arranged in a master/slave relationship. For roller
doors, it is generally necessary to use a lock on each side of the
door, as such a door has sufficient flexibility to allow a person
attempting unauthorised access to force up just one side of the
door.
When two or more locks are used, separate synchronisation signals
are sent from the base station to each of the remote modules of the
respective locks. This may be done by interleaving the
synchronisation signals in time (time allocation or time division),
or another method of allocation (e.g. frequency or code division)
may be used. Each signal sent to or from each remote module
includes identification data for the remote module and for the base
station.
With multiple locks, the control system logic determines whether
all lock assemblies associated with a particular closure are in the
unlocked condition before moving that closure, and an alert signal
may be generated when any of the lock assemblies associated with a
particular closure fail to lock or unlock in response to a command
sent from the base station.
Use with Other Devices in Door System
The lock assembly of the invention may be used as a peripheral
device in a closure control system along with other peripheral
devices. For example, when used with a garage door, the door may
also be equipped with an obstruction detection system, such as a PE
beam system, preventing or stopping operation of the garage door
when the beam is broken. The obstruction detection system may
include one or more wireless obstruction detection remote modules
communicating with the same base station which communicates with
remote module 90, with programmed logic ensuring continuous
synchronised communication with each remote module. Alternatively,
an obstruction detection module may be configured as a peripheral
device to a lock assembly remote module, or vice versa, with one
module effectively controlling operation of the other.
Alternative Embodiment of Lock Assembly
An alternative embodiment of the lock assembly 84 is illustrated in
FIG. 8A, in which like components to those described and
illustrated with reference to FIG. 2 are given the same reference
number, but raised by 1000.
In this variant, lock assembly 1084 features an electric motor and
geared drive (not shown) driving projecting locking bolt 1200
between a first, locked position and a second, unlocked position.
Once again, microswitches (not shown) cooperating with the shaft of
bolt 1200 are employed to provide a signal when the first or second
position is reached. When bolt 1200 is between the first and second
positions it can be seen as being in its third, intermediate
position. The componentry of lock assembly 1084 is mounted to a
base part (not shown) and protected within housing 1236, removably
fastened to the base part by screws.
In this embodiment, manual operation is realised by handle 1214
mounted to the end of the bolt shaft opposite to the end where bolt
1200 projects, which as shown is external of housing 1236. As in
the first embodiment, although not visible in FIG. 8, a portion of
lock assembly 1084 within housing 1236 is provided for enclosing
module 90, being the electrical and electronic componentry of the
device (lock circuitry 94 and communication unit 92--FIG. 3). In
FIG. 8A a suitable shaping 1235 in housing 1236 is shown, enclosing
a projecting antenna of communication unit 92.
An advantage of this embodiment is that no removal of housing 1236
or disassembly of the lock assembly is required in order to
manually override the unit manual by way of handle 1214. However,
this raises the risk of unexpected manual interference, and the
system is configured such that any change of state recorded at base
station 100 results in stopping the door if it is moving (or
preventing the door from moving if an open or close command is
received). In such a situation, a warning may be provided (e.g. a
flashing light and/or audible signal), and only when the lock is
moved into the locked or unlocked position as required, and a
further command signal received, will a door move operation be
recommenced. For example, if the door is moving from its open
position to its closed position (with the lock in its second
position), and the lock is manually moved, a signal is sent to base
station 100 and the door motor is stopped. When a further command
signal is sent to close the door, a signal is first sent to remote
module 90 to move the lock into its second, unlocked position, and
the door movement is then commenced. If, instead, before the
further command signal is sent, the lock is manually moved into its
second position, then this new state is signalled to the base
station so that the door is ready to move on receipt of the further
command.
FIG. 8A shows screws 1239 for use in mounting lock assembly 1084 to
door track 1080b by way of threaded bores 1402, in a similar way to
the arrangement illustrated in FIG. 2C. In FIG. 8B an alternative
mounting arrangement is shown, in which a mounting plate 1406 is
fastened to threaded bores (not shown) in the rear of base part of
lock assembly 1084 by way of screws 1404, so to allow mounting of
the assembly to the door itself. This option is suitable for
overhead door applications, for example, particularly in
installations in which there is insufficient side room to
accommodate the lock assembly laterally of door track 1080b.
FIGS. 8C and 8D shows the assembly mounted at one edge of the lower
section of a sectional overhead door 1020, by fastening mounting
plate 1404 to the door by bolts or similar as shown. A
complementary strike plate 1238 of a suitable configuration is
mounted to the outside of track 1080b by a set of bolts as shown,
to cooperate with locking bolt 1200.
As shown in FIGS. 8C and 8D, lock assembly 1084 is used on the
right hand side of door 120. To use the lock (or a second lock) on
the left hand side of the door a left hand version of the lock
assembly can be used, i.e. a mirror image of the design shown in
FIG. 8A. Preferably, to simplify design, manufacture and stock
control, an identical lock assembly is used, inverted for use on
the left hand side of the door, with the bolts simultaneously
moving in opposed directions into their locking positions on the
two sides of the door. For convenience, handle 1214 is brightly
coloured (e.g. red) so that it can easily be identified in the
event manual operation is required.
Further Alternative Embodiment of Lock Assembly
FIG. 9 illustrates a further variant, in which like lock assembly
components to those described and illustrated with reference to
FIGS. 8A to 8D are given the same reference numbers, but raised by
1000.
In a similar way to FIG. 8C, this shows a limited sideroom
installation, with lock assembly 2084 mounted to the door 120 via a
mounting plate, to engage with strike plate 1238.
Lock assembly 2084 omits handle 1214, which simplifies the
mechanical components. Instead, for use in emergencies (such as in
case of a power outage), a push button 2214 accessible on the front
face of the housing as shown enables manual operation of the lock
assembly. Push button 2214 is connected to the drive circuitry,
which is programmed such that each push of the button results in
movement of the locking bolt (not shown) between from the locked to
the unlocked position, and vice versa.
Apart from reducing the number of parts and allowing use of a
closed housing, which is less vulnerable to dirt and dust, this
embodiment reduces the likelihood of the lock being placed in an
intermediate position, i.e. bolt positions between the locked and
unlocked positions.
Base station 100 is programmed such that, when the recorded lock
status of the lock assembly indicates that the lock battery voltage
is below a prescribed threshold (e.g. below 2.4 v for a 3 v power
source, BATTERY STATUS=LOW), a command is sent to the lock assembly
to prevent manual operation between the unlocked and locked
position. In other words, operation of push button 2214 will not
result in locking the door, thus avoiding the situation that the
door is locked and the lock battery is not sufficient to allow a
user to unlock the door.
Every operation of the door when the lock status indicates a low
battery results in a suitable status indication accompanied by an
audible and/or visual warning signal (such as a programmed sequence
of warning flashes of the operator light and, if incorporated in a
networked system, a signal to the user's mobile electronic
device).
Further, the system can be configured for `failsafe` operation,
such that when the BATTERY STATUS is recorded as LOW and the door
is locked, the lock is moved into its unlocked position until the
battery is replaced. This prevents the risk that the door cannot be
manually opened in the event of a power failure or operator
malfunction. This failsafe design therefore ensures that the lock
is always in its unlocked condition when the battery charge is
low.
It will be understood that when the BATTERY STATUS is recorded as
LOW but the communication between base station and remote module is
still operating, and the lock is recorded in its unlocked
condition, the door can still be opened and closed (but the lock
will not operate). When communication with the remote module fails,
or the lock is not in its unlocked condition, door operation is
precluded.
When a mains power failure occurs, the lock assembly will remain in
the state it finds itself when the power failure occurs. Therefore
the power interruption will not affect the status of the lock
assembly. During the power failure the lock assembly can be
operated by push button 2214 as normal, and when power is restored
the current lock status can be reported to base station 100.
In this embodiment, remote module 90 includes the logic functions
that enable it to drive the lock between the locked and unlocked
positions on receiving signals from push button 2214.
It is noted that FIGS. 10 and 11, described above with reference to
examples of mounting of the lock assembly to a roller door track,
illustrate the use of a lock 2084 of the type comprising a manual
push button 2214.
Additional Features
Lock assembly 84, 1084, 2084 may be provided with an additional
keylock as part of the mechanism, to enable a user equipped with
the key to selectively lockout remote operation of the lock (e.g.
to prevent unlocking of the lock assembly when going on
vacation).
It will be understood that the control system may be configured to
control any suitable number of lock assemblies mounted at different
positions on one or both roller tracks 80a, 80b of the door 20.
Further, it will be understood that, although the above embodiments
described above use a locking bolt that drives between an unlocked
and a locked condition, the invention is equally applicable to any
other suitable lock assembly, such as a pivoting latch assembly, or
an electromagnetic lock assembly. For example, the invention may be
used with a latch lock on a door, i.e. a lock which automatically
engages when the door or other closure is moved to its closed
position, usually through engagement of a spring-loaded bevelled
bolt interacting with a strike plate when closing the door. In this
form, the remote module may operate to selectively withdraw the
bolt against the spring for a limited time to allow opening, and
then release the bolt such that subsequent closure will re-engage
it.
Further, it will be understood that while the above description
refers to use of the invention with garage doors, it is equally
applicable to any type of closure, such as a gate, curtain,
shutter, barrier, which may open and close by any type of
operation, e.g. sliding, retracting or swinging on hinges. The
invention may, for example, be used for parcel or letter boxes on a
premises, operation of the wireless lock being commanded by control
signals from a base station receiving commands to unlock the box in
response to prescribed instructions or conditions.
The word `comprising` and forms of the word `comprising` as used in
this description do not limit the invention claimed to exclude any
variants or additions.
Modifications and improvements to the invention will be readily
apparent to those skilled in the art. Such modifications and
improvements are intended to be within the scope of this
invention.
* * * * *